Glass canopies are an aesthetically pleasing and practical addition to both internal and external architecture. Due to their transparency, they optimise the amount of light within a space whilst also providing shelter from variable weather, making them particularly desirable in environments such as outside shopping centres, bus stations and other public areas.
Through adding a glass canopy, you can also be sure you’re also building a prominent focal point that looks eye-catching. The smooth, clean lines of glass possess an inherently contemporary feel whilst also being minimalist enough to complement nearly all styles of architecture. We’ve compiled a list of five of our favourite glass canopies to demonstrate quite how versatile they can be and the creative opportunity they provide to your commercial space.
Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, Milan, Italy
Proudly encasing the space above Italy’s oldest active shopping mall, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele, this glass canopy is a brilliant example of how glass can complement older or contrasting styles of architecture. Dating back to the early 19th century, this iron and glass roof was an important step in the evolution of modern and enclosed shopping malls we know today, and remains, 130 years later, an elegant focal point in keeping with the luxury retail outlets which it shelters.
The Canopy, Les Halles, Paris
The Canopy is a gigantic curving metallic umbrella over the site where Les Halles, the storied market in Paris, used to be, prior to its demolition in 1971. Built with the architect’s intention to make people feel as though they are “walking into a forest glade”, the construction is formed from a remarkable 7,000 tons of steel and 18,000 sheets of glass. Rising 72ft and crafted in warm yellow, this canopy has a highly contemporary look and demonstrates how glass canopies are the ideal modern addition to renovate or restore previously dilapidated areas.
The National Theatre, Budapest, Hungary
Theatres have always been traditionally grand structures, aiming to inspire excitement in customers as they enter the building to get their fix of arts and culture. This one in Hungary is no different, and is helped by the highly sleek, awe-inspiring glass canopy that hangs above its entrance. The large panes of glass contrast well with the external brick work and inject a futuristic feel to the overall architecture.
Yonkers Raceway Empire City Casino, New York
For an awe-inspiring glass canopy, you needn’t look further than this impressive structure located at one of New York’s most famous casinos. Featuring over 45 feet of frameless low iron glass set within a 300-foot arc, this glass canopy is the perfect contemporary addition to the buzzing nightlife it is home to.
ION Orchard, Singapore
Shine, sparkle and sleek sheets of glass – this glass canopy hanging over the entrance to Singapore’s multi-sensory experiential shopping and lifestyle mall has it all. Inspired by the alternating textures and patterns found in nature and the arboriculture history of the road is it’s located on; this canopy is a practical yet stunning structure that succeeds in drawing custom and enticing footfall.
Article courtesy of Peterlee Glass